Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chapel Hill to Charlotte

North Carolina is known for its scenic routes and small towns, making it an ideal road trip destination for those who seek adventure and relaxation. A drive from Chapel Hill to Charlotte takes approximately two hours, covering a distance of 130 miles. Along the way, there are several small towns and hidden gems that are worth exploring. In this article, we will highlight five unexpected places to stop on a road trip from Chapel Hill to Charlotte and why they are worth visiting.

Halfway Point: Thomasville, NC

Before we begin our journey of exploring five unexpected places, let's first talk about the halfway point of our road trip - Thomasville, NC. This city is conveniently located right in the middle of the journey and a perfect spot to take a break and rejuvenate. Thomasville is a charming town with a rich history and home to many furniture outlets. While here, you can take a stroll around one of the town's parks or visit the Thomasville History Center to learn about the town's history.

1. Pittsboro, NC – Vibrant Small Town

Pittsboro is a small town located 16 miles west of Chapel Hill and is worth stopping for its vibrant downtown and art scene. The town has an impressive collection of art galleries, gift shops, and antique stores. The town's courthouse is a must-visit spot as it is surrounded by a beautiful town square. Here, you can enjoy the mid-day sun while indulging in delicious local cuisine.

Favorite Food: The Root Cellar Cafe serves up delicious wholesome sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.

2. Asheboro, NC – North Carolina Zoo

Asheboro is a beautiful city located just 30 miles south of Greensboro and is home to the North Carolina Zoo, one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world. The zoo is home to over 1800 animals and spread over 500 acres of lush natural landscape. Visitors can take a narrated tram tour or walk around and see the habitats, including African Plains, North America, and a variety of aviaries.

Favorite Food: The Table Farmhouse Bakery serves tasty cakes, pastries, and all-day brunch options.

3. Lexington, NC – Flavorful BBQ Capital

Lexington is a small city located roughly 35 miles northeast of Charlotte and famous for its Lexington-style barbecue or "Lexington-style dip." The city's history of barbecuing can be traced back to the late 1800s, and now the city is home to several BBQ joints and restaurants. You can either get the BBQ on a sandwich or on a plate with a side of coleslaw and hushpuppies.

Favorite Food: Lexington Barbecue serves up some of the best smokey pit-cooked barbecue in the city.

4. Salisbury, NC – Rich in History

Salisbury is a city located around 45 miles north of Charlotte and rich in history. The city dates back to the 18th century and was once a busy railroad town. Several landmarks in the city survived the Civil War, including the Salisbury National Cemetery, which is home to over 11,000 graves. The city's downtown area is known for its unique art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants.

Favorite Food: The Blue Bay Seafood Restaurant offers a vast selection of seafood dishes, including fresh oysters, scallops, and crab cakes.

5. Belmont, NC – Quaint Town on the Water

Belmont is a picturesque town situated around 14 miles west of Charlotte. The town is nestled along the banks of the Catawba River and features stunning views of the water. The Belmont Abbey College, a Benedictine Monastery located on the outskirts of the city, is an excellent spot to explore and learn about the history of the area. Belmont's quaint downtown area is known for its charming shops, restaurants, and lively community events.

Favorite Food: The String Bean is a fantastic restaurant serving Southern-style cuisine, including blackened catfish and chicken pot pie.

Conclusion

North Carolina is a state full of surprises, and a road trip along the scenic route from Chapel Hill to Charlotte is a fantastic way to explore some of these hidden gems. From picturesque small towns to nationally acclaimed attractions, there are plenty of exciting and unexpected places to check out. By embarking on this adventure, you will not only discover beautiful landscapes, but also experience the rich history and culinary delights of the area.